Sideswipe Truck Accidents Lawyers

The definition of sideswipe changes slightly from state to state, but for the most part, a sideswipe truck wreck happens when a truck hits another vehicle in the side without the initial impact doing major damage to the front or back end of the vehicle. The impact then swipes along the surface of the vehicle. Some states count sideswipes and “angle” accidents as the same. While others define angle accidents as occurring when a truck hits either a front or back corner of another vehicle at an angle.

After a sideswipe truck accident, an injured victim can seek compensation by filing a claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. It's important to document the accident scene, gather witness statements, and seek medical attention for any injuries sustained. Consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney can help navigate the claims process and maximize the compensation received for damages.

What is the average settlement for a sideswipe truck accident?

The value of a sideswipe truck accident settlement can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the circumstances of the accident, the severity of the injuries sustained, and other factors like fault, insurance coverage, and your attorney’s negotiating skills. To understand how much an individual claim may be worth, an injured victim or their family should contact an experienced sideswipe truck accident lawyer with a track record of success in their state.

In most circumstances, yes, injured sideswipe truck accident victims have the right to sue for economic damages. But filing a lawsuit may not be necessary. Most truck accidents can be settled out of court. A knowledgeable truck accident lawyer can investigate the case, collect evidence, file an insurance claim that demands maximum compensation, and negotiate aggressively for results. If the insurance company won’t make a substantial settlement offer, the lawyer can file a lawsuit asking the court to make them pay.

Who is at fault in a sideswipe truck accident?

In a sideswipe accident, the tractor-trailer, big rig, or other large truck that moved out of its lane is typically the one at fault. Depending on the situation, several parties could be at fault including the truck driver for driving recklessly, the trucking company for failing to maintain the vehicle, the manufacturer for defective parts, the shipping company for improperly loaded cargo, or a supplier that overloaded the truck. A skilled sideswipe truck accident lawyer can help identify the liable parties and fight relentlessly for the compensation the victim deserves.

In the U.S., about 15-25 percent of truck accidents are sideswipe or angle truck wrecks. They happen most often when traffic is free flowing or slightly restricted. Sideswipes usually occur at speeds of 42 mph or faster, according to one study. The factors that cause sideswipe accidents often include:

• Improper lane change.
• Tire blowouts and disabled or malfunctioning truck equipment.
• Truck cuts off another vehicle.
• Alcohol (DUI).
• Distracted driving.
• Fatigued driving, drowsy driving.
• Fell asleep at wheel.
• Blindspots.
• Overcompensation, oversteering.
• Taking a turn too fast, speeding.
• Cargo shift.
• Road conditions
• Driver swerving, lost control of vehicle.
• Truck drives into another vehicle trying to avoid a collision with another item or event.
• Acceleration.
• Deacceleration.

Common sideswipe truck accident injuries

It's important to seek medical attention immediately after any accident, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be obvious right away and could worsen over time. Here are some injuries that are more common in sideswipe truck accidents:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs). Concussion, brain hemorrhage, contusions, and nerve damage.
• Neck and back injuries. Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries.
• Fractures. Broken bones, particularly in the arms and legs.
• Internal injuries. These can occur from the force of the impact and may not be immediately apparent.

If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a sideswipe truck accident, you need to protect your rights and understand your legal options for financial compensation. An experienced sideswipe truck accident lawyer can answer your questions, explain the legal deadlines that apply to your situation, and estimate the value of your claim during a free case consultation. Truck accident lawyers typically work for a contingency fee. That means there is no upfront payment or out-of-pocket expense for their services. And if they don’t win, you don’t pay. Contact a trusted truck accident lawyer in your area to schedule a free consultation today.